Beans with plums: A Christmas revival of flavours
Traditional dishes dominate the table on Christmas, but we are increasingly seeking recipes that will surprise our guests. One such dish is beans with plums, a somewhat forgotten delicacy that combines simplicity with a sophisticated flavour. This dish perfectly captures the festive spirit while introducing a bit of freshness to the Christmas menu.
Beans with plums combines the hearty nature of white beans with the natural sweetness of dried plums, creating a harmonious whole that delights in taste and aroma. Today, it represents an interesting alternative to more popular dishes. Preparing beans with plums is simple but requires some patience—the result rewards the effort.
Recipe for beans with plums
Beans with plums is a dish worthy of returning to our tables. Simple to prepare yet impressive, it fits into the festive atmosphere and tradition. It's a great way to introduce something new to the Christmas menu.
Ingredients:
- 9 ounces of white beans
- 5 ounces of dried plums
- 1 large onion
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 1 tablespoon of honey (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 allspice berries
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
- Soak the beans in water overnight and cook them until soft the next day with the bay leaves and allspice.
- Heat oil in a pan and sauté the finely chopped onion. Cut the plums into smaller pieces and add them to the onion; fry briefly. Add the cooked beans and mix, seasoning with honey, salt, and pepper according to preference.
- Heat on low for a few minutes until the flavours combine.
- Serve warm, as an accompaniment to other Christmas Eve dishes or as a standalone dish.
Why prepare beans with plums for Christmas?
Beans with plums are not only tasty but also a healthy option for the festive table. Beans are an excellent source of plant protein, which played a key role in the traditional Christmas meatless kitchen. Dried plums add sweetness and depth to the dish while being a source of fibre, which aids digestion—particularly important during holiday feasts. The combination of these two ingredients creates a hearty and aromatic dish that will impress both family and guests.